IVL-03-29-2014

Living Illinois Valley

Spring 2014

Spring Valley Bakery celebrates the holidays with sweet treats.

See our story on Page 4

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Judy

O v er 1 66 Years

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amy

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Illinois Valley Living

Spring has finally sprung!

W

ell, it’s about time. I’m no different than most in the Illinois Valley, as we welcome spring with open arms.

After a brutal Midwest winter, I think we’re all more than ready to embrace the longer days, the warmer weather and the birth of a new season in our area.

With this new issue of Illinois Valley Living, I think you’ll find quite a few fun stories to warm your heart and stir your soul. Like in past issues, our Spring 2014 magazine is filled with stories about your friends and neighbors in the Illinois Valley. From the delightful folks at Spring Valley Bakery to Marlene Ernat whose legacy lives at the Utica Public Library to a good old fashioned chicken fry in Wyanet to a great place to grab a bite to eat in Mendota — and everywhere in between — I think you’ll enjoy learning and reading about some great folks.

As always, it’s our pleasure to produce and publish this quarterly magazine. We consistently get telephone call after telephone call from readers, who are wondering when our next edition will be on the street. That’s a good sign to me. That means people are reading — not just the stories but also the advertisers’ promotions as well. I’m glad you remain excited about Illinois Valley Living because it truly has been a labor of love for us.

Since you are integral to the success of any of our publications, I hope you’ll feel free to send me an email with any story ideas you might have. I can be reached at tsimon@ bcrnews.com. Several of the stories in this edition were reader generated, and just so you know, we take every suggestion very seriously. And if you don’t see your story suggestion in this edition, chances are it is already set for another magazine throughout the year.

While I know spring is a busy time, I hope you’ll carve out a few minutes to enjoy our Spring 2014 issue. And of course, we value your input. Email me with any comments and suggestions you might have.

Have a great spring and happy reading!

Best regards, Terri Simon, editor

Living Illinois Valley

PUBLISHER Sam R Fisher EDITOR Terri Simon SALES DEVELOPMENT Pam Pratt-Marsh PAGE DESIGN Greg Wallace PUBLISHED BY The Bureau County Republican 800 Ace Road Princeton, Illinois 61356 (815) 875-4461 MAIN COVER PHOTO Kath Clark

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Below, the well-known Spring Valley Bakery sign is a legacy on Spring Valley’s West St. Paul Street, calling those with a sweet tooth to the store selling a variety of treats, cakes, pies and more. At right, longtime owners/operators Dave, Jamie and Nancy Hepner pose for a photo with some of their Easter goodies, which include lamb cakes, Easter baskets, decorated cut-out cookies, cupcakes and much more.

The sweet smell of

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HEPNERS’ SPRING VALLEY BAKERY IS READY FOR ALL YOUR HOLIDAY SWEET TREATS Story by Terri Simon Photos by Kath Clark

ley’s West St. Paul Street offers homemade treats that will urge you to return again and again. One bite, and the love he aroma hits you the minute you affair begins ...

LaSalle residents Dave and Nancy open the door ... It beckons you Hepner are starting their 30th year at inside. It makes you lose sight of Spring Valley Bakery. Along with their any diet you’re on. That smell reminds son, Jamie Hepner, the trio and their you of a place in time when Grandma’s staff have created a sweet sensation that kitchen created similar scents. has stood the test of time.

They are pretty. While one usually Baked goods, cakes, pies, doughnuts, doesn’t use that adjective to describe brownies, cookies, cheesecakes and food, the bakery cases at Spring Valley more ... The Hepners stir in a heaping Bakery hold a host of beautiful treats helping of pride in everything they crethat will surely tempt your palate. Just ate. Every item that leaves the bakery the sight of them seals the deal. You is homemade; nothing is frozen or won’t be walking out empty-handed.

Did we talk about taste yet? If the sight prepackaged. From the frosting on the and the smell of these homemade baked Bismarks to the loaves of Italian bread to the iced sugar cookies to the decorated goods isn’t enough, just wait until you take a bite. For those with a sweet tooth, cakes, you can rest assured the Hepners made it in Spring Valley. the well-known bakery on Spring Val-

T

4

Regardless of which sweet treats tempt you, you’ll be able to find a plethora of flavors, varieties and sizes to fit your taste. All items are homemade at the bakery.

Illinois Valley Living

A variety of sweets are on the menu at the Spring Valley Bakery, and no doubt, the long-standing shop will keep you coming back for more and more. Pictured above at left are some Easter treats, freshly-baked and decorated in the bakery. Above at left, Jamie Hepner shows some of the decorated cut-out sugar cookies he has created.

Creating the hometown bakery came pastries come in 30-plus varieties. In 2013, years. There’s nothing like being your own easy for Nancy, who first got the taste of they cranked out more than 1,600 of these boss, and we take a lot of pride in what we fresh-baked dough in her veins when she popular treats. do.” worked for seven years at Pierson’s Bakery Easter, Mother’s Day, graduation, Up to their elbows in flour and sugar in LaSalle. For Dave, the jump into the bak- Father’s Day ... the holidays never stop and other ingredients, the Hepners didn’t ery business was a bit more difficult. With coming, and the Hepners never stop even hesitate to say what their favorite a teaching/coaching career in the area, he creating their made-from-scratch treats bakery items are. Nancy likes the white ultimately decided to jump in with both that locals order to celebrate the special Long Johns, while Dave opts for the cream feet ... and the rest, as they say, is history ... moments in their lives. cheese filled Bismark. As for Jamie, his and a sweet one at that.

Nancy and Jamie and other staff memtastes are basic.

“It was kind of his idea to do it,” Nancy bers’ day begins at 7 p.m., when they crank “Glazed doughnuts,” he said quickly. “A said, smiling, as she thought back 30-some up the mixer and start the daily baking pro- good, glazed doughnut is hard to beat.” years ago. cess in a spotless kitchen. Dave starts delivSo how long can you bake and deliver “It was kind of scary at first,” Dave admit- ering around 12:30 a.m. His route includes and decorate all night long? Dave didn’t ted. stops in Bureau, Putnam, LaSalle and Lee even hesitate to answer.

With spring upon us, the Hepners are counties — around 40 stops/deliveries, “We could have never done all this withbusy with not just their regular bakery many on a daily basis. The bakery cases in out Jamie, and he couldn’t do it without items, but they also add a whole host of the bakery are filled for those who stop in us. When I leave (the business), all three of Easter items to their repertoire, including the store. us leave. But it’s not in the cards anytime hot cross buns, lamb and rabbit cakes, dec“Nancy and my son are more the baksoon,” Dave said. orated cookies, cupcakes and cakes, and of ers,” Dave said, smiling easily. “I’m just the Nancy, who smiles just as easily as her course their well-known homemade pies delivery guy.” husband, says the business is far more than and cheesecakes. Of all of those seasonal Anytime you do something for 30-plus just cookies, cakes and sweet rolls. items, the Hepners say their decorated, cut- years, you’d imagine a myriad of changes “We’ve met some very good people in out sugar cookies are probably the most would have been experienced along the this business. Yes, I’d do it all again. popular, as the chicks, Easter eggs, rabbits way. But not for the Hepners and the Spring Valley Bakery is open seven days and more entice sweet-lovers of all ages.

Spring Valley Bakery. a week from 5 a.m. to noon on Saturdays The Easter rush comes right after their “We’ve remained fairly constant because through Wednesdays, and from 5 a.m. to 4 paczki craze — a Polish pastry made only that’s the way we want it,” Dave said. “We p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays. To place an once a year for Fat Tuesday, the day before are a Mom and Pop operation, and we order, stop in at the store at 119 W. St. Paul the Lenten season begins. The Bismark-like aren’t going to change ... It’s given us 30 St., or call the bakery at 815-664-5102.

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One coupon per check, per visit. Not valid with any other coupons or promotional offers. Coupon has no cash value. No change returned. Taxes and gratuity not included. Alcoholic beverages not included. Valid at LaSalle Denny’s location. Selection and prices may vary. Only original coupon accepted. Photocopied and Internet printed or purchased coupons are not valid. No substitutions. Expires 5/31/14. ©2012 D HO, LLC MP SPRING

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WITH OGLESBY POLICE CHIEF JAMES D. KNOBLAUCH Questions compiled by Terri Simon Photo by Kath Clark

Polenta and chicken stew.

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only take one thing with you, what would it be: My family.

Town of residence: Oglesby.

What is your favorite local restaurant: Where did you grow up: Oglesby.

Uptown.

Family: Wife, Susan Kaye of 20 years; When you were a small boy, what did two children, Morgan, 18, and Evan, 15. you want to be when you grew up: A Pets: Chocolate Lab named Tyson.

Occupation: Chief of Police for the city police officer.

What is the most enjoyable aspect of Oglesby. of being Oglesby’s chief of police: The What is the last book you read: I like people I work with and the citizens of to read police articles.

What is the last TV show you watched: Oglesby.

What is the biggest challenge of being “Blacklist.”

Oglesby’s chief of police: Maintaining What is the last movie you saw: the department’s economic status in “Olympus Has Fallen.”

What is your favorite kind of music: I order to provide the necessary services to the citizens of Oglesby. like all music.

Do you suggest young people enter If you were stranded on a desert island and could have only one meal for the field of law enforcement? Why: Yes, it is a very rewarding job. the rest of your life, what would it be:

6

If someone asked you to name a memorable moment, what first comes to mind: My children being born.

How do you spend your spare time: With my family — my children are involved in many activities.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement so far: Modernizing the police department and bringing it up to the 21st century.

What is the best advice you can give to others: The hat and the uniform are professional; be approachable while maintaining authority.

What is the best thing about living in Oglesby: The people and the small home town atmosphere.

What changes would you like to see in Oglesby: I would like to see Oglesby continue to grow, yet keep the small town atmosphere we currently enjoy.

Illinois Valley Living

Illinois Valley Living

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At right, a couple of Wayne and Jerra Withers’ miniature Haflinger horses are rather curious about the camera pointed in their direction. Below, this wagon, which is pulled by the Withers’ Haflingers, is a miniature version of the iconic Barnum and Bailey Circus wagon.

Taking center

Germany,” Wayne said. “In the early days, they were almost down to nothing because the war took them. During World War I or II, people took them and hid them up in the mountains. Then when the war was over, they bought them down and started raising them. In 1962, they shipped 12 of them from Germany to the United States, and people started raising them here.”

DMW Stage Lines currently has more than a dozen miniature ponies and about the same amount of Haflinger horses.

The couple has their own stallions and raise both breeds to sell or rent. There are also three donkeys on the premises.

“People ask what do we do with a donkey? We can show them ...; we can drive them with a wagon; and they are here to chase coyotes away,” he said.

Withers’ business began in Arthur, Ill., But Wayne and Jerra Withers of Magno- in 1969.

Members of his staff have built wagons lia have opened a rather unique business that vary from hitch to rideable wagons. in Putnam County. DMW Stage Lines in “We sell any kind of horse-drawn wagrural Magnolia rents and sells miniature ons or vehicles,” he said. “We sell harhorses, Haflinger horses, stagecoaches, nesses. So if you buy a cart from us and buggies, circus wagons and more. need a harness, we can do that.”

“Haflinger horses are a breed out of

‘stage’

DMW STAGE LINES TROTS INTO THE ILLINOIS VALLEY Story and photos by Dixie Schroeder

M

any people have a dream of opening their own business.

Some set their sights on restaurants, retail or even a service-type business.

FRANK J. MAUTINO Deputy Majority Leader STATE REPRESENTATIVE - 76th District

8

District Office 221 E. St. Paul St. Spring Valley, Il 61362 815-664-2717 Fax: 815-663-1629

Capitol Building Room 300 Springfield, Il 62706 217-782-0140 Fax: 217-557-7680

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Bureau County Health & Wellness Clinic PriMAry HeAlTH CAre ServiCeS Hours: Tues. 9AM-2PM; Wed 9AM-4PM; Thurs. 9AM-2PM

Illinois Valley Living

The business also has a calliope that plays automatically or by a player.

The calliope is part of their new circus wagon, which has been taken to a variety of venues.

The Withers are supporters of the Ringling Brothers Circus and have participated in the circus parade for nine years. To go, it requires at least two trailers, one for the coach and equipment and the second for the horses, tack and feed for the trip.

As an old time circus historian and fan, Wayne can tell you a lot about how the circus moved around.

“I know for a fact that they played in Magnolia at one time,” he said. “When they got done in Magnolia, they packed up and spent all night trying to make it to Washington, Ill. From there they went into Peoria. I know they have a route Wayne Withers and his four-legged friend take a break from his work at DMW Stage Lines that they followed. In the heyday of the in rural Magnolia. In the background are several versions of stagecoaches Withers sells. circus, they carried a lot more people Withers also breeds and sells miniature ponies to pull those wagons. than what would be used today to do the moving of animals and setting up the Withers has designed and/or copied online, and it got built. We think it is the tents.” different wagons like the iconic Budgreatest thing. We run it in parades, and Wayne has high hopes for his busiweiser wagon. Withers’ wagon is not it works well.” ness. nearly as huge as the Budweiser version, Moving the wagons, stagecoaches and “There’s nothing in the area like it. We since he uses it with the miniature ponies horses can be challenging. The Withers are moving along a lot faster than I had he breeds and sells. found a trailer that fits the small stageanticipated, but that is alright,” he said.

The stagecoach was one of Withers’ coach. When hired out for a rental job, it For more information about DMW biggest challenges. is a logistical challenge for the business to Stage Lines, contact Withers at 815“Nobody wanted to build a small one bring not only a wagon/buggy, but also 786-5078. like that,” he said. “I found (a design) horses as well.

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Voice of the children WHAT DOES EASTER MEAN TO ME? Questions compiled by Terri Simon Photo by Kath Clark

S

tudents in Melinda Reed’s fifthgrade class at Peru Catholic gave their thoughts about the upcoming Easter holiday. The students were asked the following question: What does Easter mean to you? Here are their answers, exactly how they were submitted to Illinois Valley Living.

“Easter means life to me because spring has come, flowers are blooming, and the grass is green. Easter is a time for joy, peace, and hope. Easter brings new life such as baby bunnies, baby birds, and baby animals.

Easter is a time to care for and help

10

many people and animals. Flowers are blooming everywhere watching the sky a comforting warm spring breeze.

When all of this happens you think of who created everything. God created all of this! When the flowers come out of the ground and rise to the sun we think of Jesus ascending up to Heaven.

“Jesus did so much work to help us now on Easter we can help and pray to him. Easter represents Jesus saving us and rising from the dead and ascending to heaven. Easter means life over death.”

Isabelle Collins “Easter means to me that God Is with me at all times and that I should

go to mass on Easter Sunday so I pray to the risen Jesus. Easter is all about giving thanks to Jesus for sacrificing himself. Three days later he risen from the dead so they called him the risen Jesus. Easter is also about giving thanks to other people and having fun with your family.”

Griffen Heuser “Easter means going to church with my family. Jesus died on the cross for are sins. On Easter we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. Jesus rose on the third day to open the gates of heaven.

We are thankful for Jesus dying on the cross and resurrecting.”

Jim Korte

Illinois Valley Living

“Easter to me is a special day when we remember that God sent his only son Jesus to come to Earth and die for us on Good Friday and rise from the dead three days later on Easter Sunday so we could live with God forever in heaven. Everyone should be thankful for Jesus Gods only son to give his life on earth for us. Easter Sunday is also special to me because everyone in my family is together and we go to church together and spend the whole day together and at night we all have dinner together.”

Gunnar Jauch

is celebrated on the first Sunday of Spring after the first full moon. People can celebrate it in both religious ways, like going to church, and secular ways, like having an Easter egg hunt. To me Easter means the sacrifice of Jesus to save us from sin and death. It is also spending time with family.”

Ben Johll

could put on some nice clothes and go to church as a family as well.”

Claire Morrow

“Easter is the time of year when we celebrate Jesus destroying death, and sin, and rising into heaven. I enjoy spending time with my family especially now because my grandma is in the hospital. Also having a great meal Easter is a happy time of year. It was to celebrate. We always go to mass on the day Jesus rose from the dead. It Sundays and holidays first.” was also a time where the disciples got Nicholas Kerasotes to see Jesus again. Not only did Jesus rise, but we also celebrate Jesus’ victory “I think Easter is made up of parts. of death and sin. Also, it is a day that I think one part is the ressurection of “Easter means to love Jesus and God Jesus is with us!

Jesus, and the others are new life, and for giving us eternal life and happi“Easter is also when we get to spend peace. The resurrection is jesus comness. Also thank Jesus for sacrificing time with our family. We go to church ing from the dead on the third day. himself for our sins. Maybe what together on Easter Sunday. The week it shows us that Jesus kept his word we can do to give thanks to god is to before we always get palm leaves at and what God wrote in the scriptures pray and go to church and receive the church. On Easter it is always nice is true. Peace means no fighting, Eucharist. to know that Jesus is with us. This is and trust. Jesus said that nothing “What Easter is about to thank your what I think Easter is about.” can separate us from his love, and parents and your family for helping Joe Edwall that is what part of peace is. Peace you through all things that you have has lots of parts in it too, Joy honesty been through and going to church to “To me Easter means that we and courage are other parts besides thank God.” should all love each other and be not fighting and trust, but love is the Brady Blanco happy. It’s time for peace and forgive- most important. My family and I ness. We should have fun with our have a special breakfast and then go “Easter is the Resurrection of Jesus families on Easter, finding our Easter to church.

Christ, and the 50 days after it. It Eggs and having family dinner. you Emily Szczepaniak

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You won’t go away hungry at Cindy’s on 34 SERVING UP A HEAPING HELPING OF HOSPITALITY Story and photos by Terri Simon

W

hen you walk into Cindy’s on 34, it kind of feels like you’ve just come home.

You don’t have to dress up. The people – both staff and patrons – are friendly. And the food? A huge menu offers up comforting home cooking that won’t disappoint.

The restaurant’s namesake, Cindy Jenkins, and her fiancé, Florin Ahmedoski, opened Cindy’s on 34 in June 2011. Jenkins had only a few years of experience, and Ahmedoski had about 16 years of experience under his belt. The two have created a place where farmers, non-farmers, children and travelers gather for good food, conversation and camaraderie.

Cindy’s on 34 is on Route 34 where it intersects with Interstate 39 in LaSalle County, outside of Mendota.

Jenkins said she operates her family restaurant in a manner that puts customers first, regardless of whether they drive a truck or a combine, or whether they work in an office or factory.

“I don’t believe that operating a restaurant in the farming/ agricultural area or in an urban area is any different,” Jenkins said. “I believe it’s all about the atmosphere and friendly service. Sure, we serve quality food and large portions for a good price, but without a friendly smile, it doesn’t mean much.”

And friendly is at the top of the menu at Cindy’s on 34. Jenkins said she pays special attention to staff members’ personalities before she hires them.

“I don’t believe [making customers feel welcome] is something that is trained. I believe it is in their personality traits, ...” she said. “The staff has to care about the wants and needs of the customers.”

Likewise, Jenkins does her best to make her customers feel welcome while helping them to enjoy their experience at the restaurant. It’s just part of a typical day for Jenkins to call many customers by their first names and to greet customers as they come into the restaurant and again when they depart.

“I try to visit each and every table that comes through the door, just to make sure things are OK and chit chat,” she said.

“That is what I like best about my job – the chit chat.”

While Jenkins said great service and the appreciation of customers is what separates her place from others, she’s quick to add the restaurant’s “amazing food” also keeps customers coming back time after time.

In the kitchen, Ahmedoski and other staff members crank out dishes that not only look wonderful, but tempts the tastebuds to keep eating, even though the portions are quite large. To-go boxes are the norm.

Breakfast dishes, sandwiches, dinner entrées with all the fixings, a salad bar, soups, desserts and more – one would be hard-pressed not to find something they like on the large menu.

Jenkins was quick to talk about some of the favorites that are delivered to hungry customers.

12

Cindy’s on 34 co-owner Florin Ahmedoski serves up one of the restaurant’s giant tenderloins for a customer. Along with the tenderloins, co-owner Cindy Jenkins said some of the other popular items on the menu include the restaurant’s ribeyes and Reuben sandwiches. Also the Sunday buffet is popular.

“Homemade pork tenderloins, because they are very large and very tasty,” Jenkins began. “And our ribeyes. ... We serve them many different ways, but breakfast with eggs, potatoes and toast is probably the most popular. All of our ribeyes are hand-cut choice, fresh never frozen, and they are also cooked on the charbroiler. And the Reubens! The Reubens are my favorite.”

To accompany the menu, Cindy’s on 34 offers a buffet on Sundays – 8 to 10:30 a.m. for breakfast, and 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch.

“We choose comfort food for the buffet – fried chicken, barbecued riblets, mashed potatoes and gravy, biscuits and sausage gravy, etc.,” she said.

The restaurant’s salad bar, which is open seven days a week, is filled with some family favorites like spaghetti salad, potato salad, cole slaw, and more.

While Jenkins and Ahmedoski pride themselves on their homemade items and large menu, it does require careful planning to make it all work.

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Illinois Valley Living

Signature Spaghetti Sauce

Recipes from Cindy’s on 34

Restaurant co-owners Florin Ahmedoski (left) and Cindy Jenkins believe in great customer service mixed with generous portions of comfort food that keep customers coming back for more. One thing you’ll also notice in the Mendota restaurant is there is no shortage of smiles.

“It is very difficult to have so many homemade items on such a large menu; it takes a lot of thought on how much needs to be made, so we don’t run out,” she said. “It also takes a little longer to get the food to the tables, considering we cook everything fresh.”

Cindy’s on 34 is at 1300 Raymond, Mendota. It is open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week and seats around 150 people.

Celery Onions Carrots 1 pound butter Ground chuck Tomato paste Tomato sauce Tomato juice

Like all good cooks, those in the kitchen at Cindy’s on 34 don’t have exact measurements for their popular recipes. A little of this ... a little of that ... and the homemade dishes are scrumptious and satisfying. Cindy’s on 34 shared three recipes that are favorites with customers.

Italian seasoning Oregano Garlic powder Fresh garlic Parsley Black pepper Salt Sugar Parmesan cheese

Sauté celery, onions and carrots in butter until halfway cooked. Add the cooked/crumbled/drained ground chuck and the rest of the ingredients except for the sugar and Parmesan cheese. Simmer 3 1/2 to 4 hours.

Ten minutes before the sauce is finished, add sugar and Parmesan cheese.

Comfort Green Beans

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1 large onion 1 pound butter 1/2 pound bacon Green beans Salt Pepper

Ground chuck Eggs Oatmeal Green pepper Onions Worcestershire sauce Brown sugar Mustard

Ketchup Garlic Parsley Basil Thyme Black pepper Milk

Sauté together the onion, butter and bacon.

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At right, Teri Kramer displays a variety of guns at her rural Ladd store. Teri, along with her husband, Chris, operate their gun store in an old ice house on their property. Below, the Kramer’s Guns & Supplies sign, established 1992, welcomes customers to the store.

A shot heard around the Illinois Valley KRAMER’S GUNS AND ACCESSORIES OPEN SINCE 1992 Story and photos by Lyle Ganther

hand, and there was a need for a peoplefriendly shop with reasonably-priced guns,” Teri said. “We wanted something different than the big box stores.”

The Kramers operate their shop in the same building that used to be an icehouse in the late 1800s or early 1900s, when ice was hauled there by workers from the nearby Negro Creek.

“My husband (Chris) does some repairs and sights guns. I do the rest,” she said. “I learn something everyday.

F

rom an icehouse to a gun shop ... Teri and Chris Kramer of rural Ladd who own/operate Kramer’s Guns and Accessories have warmed up the Ladd business and are firing rounds of responsible gun sales in the Illinois Valley.

“We felt there was a need for this place after I bought my first gun, a Ruger revolver. The prices for guns were out of

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It is exciting, I wouldn’t do this unless I like it. It is a full-time job that used to be a hobby.”

The Kramers decided to open their gun shop in 1992 because there wasn’t any storefront gun shops in the area.

The closest ones at that time were in Shabbona, Wenona or Streator.

“We have lots of special orders and a big inventory. We have about 100 handguns. People have different likes and purposes for their guns, so we order

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every day to get our customers what they want,” she added. “We have hunting shotguns and rifles and both hunting, recreational and self-defense handguns.

We also sell youth guns, rifles and shotguns. We have all calibers and accessories. We also have ammunition.”

Recent federal and state actions have positively impacted Kramer’s Guns.

“Every time the government starts talking about banning or taking away firearms, we see a definite increase in sales,” she said. “There is definitely panic buying and hoarding of ammunition. The manufacturers couldn’t keep up with the demand. Now it is getting slightly better. Stores had to limit purchases of ammunition for their customers because the stores’ distributors were limiting the amount of ammunition sold to them.

“With the new concealed carry law going into effect in Illinois, we have seen an increase in handgun sales. We can now defend ourselves against criminals,” she added.

Through the years, Teri has met such dignitaries as Ted Nugent, Jerry Miculek, R. Lee “The Gunny” Ermey and Bob Munden.

Kramer also helps the community with her fundraising efforts. She has donated firearms for raffles for organizations such as the LaSalle VFW, the Catholic War Veterans, the American Legion,

Kramer’s Guns and Accessories is open every day of the week, though people should probably call before they go. Besides the retail, the Kramers also help with a variety of community fundraising events by donating firearms for raffles for area organizations. When you visit the store, make sure to ask the Kramers about some of the famous people they have met.

Ladd Police and fire departments.

“My father and mother were big in the LaSalle VFW; I am currently treasurer.

My father-in-law was also a veteran,” she stated.

Teri recently donated a tactical shotgun to the Ladd Police Department for use in its new squad car.

Kramer’s Guns and Accessories is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 9 or 10 p.m. People should generally call first before coming to the shop located in rural Ladd, said Kramer.

The business’ phone number is 815894-2239. Its website address is www. kramersguns.com.

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Tim Oloffson (left) shares a tender moment with one of the young girls in Romania who he has befriended through what was initially the “Go Therefore” orphan ministry outreach, but has since developed into “Another Child Foundation,” a non-profit organization based in the United States to raise money for children in Romania.

A mission bigger than himself

ROMANIAN CHILDREN BENEFIT FROM WYANET MAN’S DESIRE TO DO SOMETHING MORE

ence of God so strongly as on that night, the Wyanet man said.

But feelings are not always long-lasting.

After sharing his “God-experience” with the took an 11-day mission trip to the eastern- director of the Romanian orphanage, OloffStory and photos by Donna Barker European country of Romania. The goal of son was advised to go back to the States, Plus contributed photos that trip was to deliver shoes to an orphan- and if he still felt the same way in a couple ometimes a person knows there is age and to meet with the children living weeks, to give the director a call. Less than there. Though the experience was good, it something more to life — above two weeks later, Oloffson was on the phone and beyond having a loving family wasn’t life-changing until the very end of to the director. those 11 days. and good job.

The rest is, as they say, history.

Listening as several women in the group Tim Oloffson of Wyanet found himself Within months, Oloffson was leading a talked about how they had been impacted unexpectedly in that place about seven mission trip back to Romania with 12 peoby their time in Romania, Oloffson knew he ple from his home church — St. Matthew’s years ago. He had a good job with LCN didn’t have those same feelings. Somewhat Lutheran Church in Princeton. It was on Door Closers in Princeton, providing well for his wife, Theresa, and their children. But discouraged, he went back to his room that that second trip that Oloffson began to get night and prayed for compassion. still there was a restlessness, a desire for a bigger picture of what could be done in And in his room, God spoke to him, as something more, a need to stretch himself the daily lives of those kids. clear as can be, Oloffson said. God’s mesand get out of his comfort zone.

“That was my biggest thing. I still felt sage was simple, “I want you to be the voice somewhat empty. We had done some Oloffson said he began to find that “something else” in October 2006 when he of these kids.” He had never felt the presgood things. We had delivered shoes to

S

16

Illinois Valley Living

Tim Oloffson (pictured above) has a variety of responsibilities when it comes to his Romanian outreach that benefits the children there.

Oloffson operates out of his office at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in Princeton. Photos and memorabilia represents his many travels to Romania to work with the children there. the orphans. But what about those kids when we pack up our bags and leave tomorrow morning and those kids have the same life to live?”

Oloffson and his wife, Theresa, decided to not leave Romania in Romania.

Rather, they proposed to do what they could to make a difference in the lives of the Romanian orphans on a daily basis by telling their story in the States and raising money to help support the orphanage.

“We have so much here, not that we should feel guilty about having so much, but we have a responsibility to respond to other people’s needs,” Oloffson said.

Still working his full-time job at LCN Door Closers, Oloffson began speaking in his free time telling family and friends, churches and women’s groups

and anyone else who would listen about the children in Romania.

As people responded, Oloffson and his wife began the “Go Therefore” orphan ministry outreach. And, with the encouragement of his pastor at that time, Oloffson began to dream bigger dreams.

The Oloffsons then partnered with others to form Another Child Foundation, a non-profit organization based in the United States to raise money for children outreaches in Romania. In addition to the continuing orphanage work, Another Child Foundation now raises funding for a school of at-risk children and also for a transition center where young adults, who have come through the orphanage, are taught life skills, so they can become self-sufficient adults.

In 2009, Oloffson left his job at LCN and within months became the full-time director for Another Child Foundation.

He now leads several mission trips a year to Romania. The rest of his time is spent in promotional and fundraising work. His full-time job has truly become “being the voice of the children,” he said.

As far as that restlessness he was experiencing nearly eight years ago, Oloffson said that restlessness is gone, and he’s found that “something more” for which he was searching.

“It’s been a great ride, not without its challenges, but still a great ride,” Oloffson said. “I would encourage others to be willing to take a risk, trust their heart and have faith and get involved in something bigger than themselves.”

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530 Park Avenue East Princeton, Illinois 17

Matty Peterson

Scott Kalina

Mike Terry

Identifying the body TATTOO ARTISTS TALK ABOUT THEIR TRADE, THEIR TALENT, THEIR TIME Story by Eric Engel Photos by Kath Clark

on the human body. The art of the X-generation. A staple of 21st Century individuality.

Some people get one when they’re ou are here for one reason, as you young and try to hide it from sight for plunge with rhythmic lungs into the middle of the theater. He is of the rest of their lives. Others cover a steady hand, showcasing the stance of their entire bodies, hands, feet, head, a statue, and he is stationed in your line neck and face with them, where there of sight as you turn to face your fate. His isn’t an inch of original skin remaining. You can love them, or you can own flesh is weathered by the colors of an outlaw existence, his finger sharp as a hate them But one thing is for certain needle’s peak. Finally, the whistle blows, ... Tattoos are literally here to stay.

“Tattoos are the oldest living art and it begins. form known to man,” said Matty You reach for your own weapons — the fortitude of tolerance and the grav- Peterson, who has owned Torrid Tattoos in Princeton for 14 years, adding ity of acceptance, but he is as quick every aspect of the tattoo process has as a lightning strike. The dyes fly from his intentions to pierce the skin, send- improved in recent years. “The teching you deep inside yourself to a place nology is better; the sterilization is better; the inks are better. It’s become an where pain is permissible for the sake actual industry now.” of recognition. Gunned down by the Mike Terry began as an apprentice ink slinger — for a moment all sensaclose to a decade ago in Ottawa and tions drum to a low monotone, like decided to open his own shop, Jade N’ bees humming a distant symphony.

Sage Tattoos in Utica nearly four years Then a pulse. And another. Coming ago. from a place unrecognized up to this “I’ve been drawing as long as I can point. The heart feels full, the mind remember, and to me, tattoos are a empty, and yet something is different. way to stand out a little bit and not be Looking down at your own skin, your eyes open wide as the stir inside begins exactly like everybody else,” said Terry, who named his parlor after his daughto swell, as you realize the heart beatter. “I enjoy all of it, and I get to meet ing is outside your own body. all kinds of different people from all Tattoos. walks of life.”

The needle-driven application of Adam Kamphaus believes a good tatink underneath the skin resulting in too is not too dissimilar from a compermanent compilations showcased

Y

18

fortable and attractive pair of jeans, in that it improves the quality of your appearance. He said the individuality expressed through tattoos isn’t about the being the black sheep in a sea of white wool anymore because many people have them, but more so in showcasing your own tricks while riding the mainstream wave.

“It’s so much more acceptable for anybody to get them now, and we probably get more women than men who come in, which wasn’t the case 20 years ago,” said Kamphaus, who coowns The Sunken Ship Tattoo in LaSalle with Scott Kalina. “Some people get real meaningful tattoos; some just have fun and get silly stuff. It’s different for everybody.”

Peterson said it’s not necessarily the tattoo culture that is changing, but the people in this fast-paced world who are recognizing they have more important things to worry about than judging the choices of another.

“People are starting to realize that life is one it’s your life, and it’s up to you how you want to live it,” he said.

“I’m getting 60-year-old people coming in for tattoos, and I’ve tattooed people from every age group around.

And it’s almost to the point now where they don’t care what other people think about them.”

Different civilizations throughout history have used body modification

Illinois Valley Living

techniques to signify the strength of their warriors and the integrity of their elders, and yet all three artists are aware that in this part of the country, there are certain taboos associated with clothing the surface of your body with what some might consider vulgarity and uncleanliness.

“If I see someone at the grocery store that I imagine might look down on me, I go out of my way to be extra nice, so that it’s like, ‘I was ready for this guy to steal my wallet, but he’s holding the door for me. I did not see that coming,’” said Kamphaus, adding that people’s curiosity leads to more positive public interactions than negative ones.

“I know how people look at us, but it’s their stereotype more than anything.

We’re not what you think we are; we’re not all dirt bags.”

Terry said that many people have approached him and asked to view the art on his body, inquiring of the shades of ink to possibly gain intellectual ground on a culture they have pondered on but never actually participated in. Peterson feels it to be simply a matter of walking in the shoes of another.

“You have to understand where they’re coming from,” Peterson said.

“Everybody’s about individuality right now. It gets in their brain, and they can’t get rid of it. That’s why you get

the gnarly look from the little old lady; it’s in her, she can’t get rid of it.”

Tattoos are unnecessary to some, but they can be transcendent to others. The artists get to enjoy both sides of the coin, as they experience both reception from and contribution to the cause.

“The energy is definitely important, and it’s always good to have some common ground and easier if you can relate to them in some way,” said Terry, mentioning that some customers know exactly what tattoo they want when they walk through the door and others have no clue. That’s when the artist gets to help shape the idea. “It’s always fun when you get to put your own creative spin on it, in any kind of art, whether it’s drawing, painting, tattooing; there’s always going to be the artist’s personal touch in there somehow.”

“Trust is a big thing. You want to find someone you can trust,” said Kamphaus, referring to the professional characteristics that lead to repeat business to the parlor he’s co-owned for almost four years. “A lot of places treat it like a factory, where you want every person that comes through the door to get a tattoo and charge them as much as you possibly can for that tattoo, but we definitely operate a little different. We’re just more about doing the

coolest tattoos out there and making people happy.”

Peterson reiterated some artists make it about themselves, but tattoos are usually a personal thing.

“To me it’s a matter of importance to the client,” he said. “It’s literally an honor when someone comes in and wants you to put an image on them for the rest of their life. That’s not something that should be taken lightly.”

The recent economic slump has certainly affected business to an extent for each artist, but with tax season arriving and summer soon to follow, the “free money,” as Kamphaus likened it, and the bikini bodies both fall into the “Reasons to Get a Tattoo” category for many. Much more troubling to the marksmen, though, are the amateur artists, to use the word loosely and who hand out like candy those infamously chiseled carvings known as garage tattoos.

“Anybody can spend a couple hundred dollars and pick up a tattoo machine online over in China or somewhere because it’s not regulated that well,” said Terry, noting he uses disposable needles for every tattoo and that it’s not sterile inside someone’s house when the process is performed on their couch or living room table.

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19

Moore than mere outlines

By Eric Engel Photo by Terri Simon

T

here are those of us who resign ourselves to the regulations handed down by the forefathers of appropriateness and expectation — those of us who quietly slip through life with barely but a whisper into the wind.

There are those of us who keep our emotions far from sleeve, our social posture proper and our true colors so close to chest they can barely be seen on the spectrum.

And then there’s Matt Moore ...

Moore of Princeton has seemingly always been a roadie happily trailing rebellion, but not in the harmful sense of the word. Rather an angel with scarlet wings, if you will. The father of two beautiful girls and soon to be loving husband has always been known for his quick tongue, sharp wit and ringing eardrums from all the loud music he enjoyed in his day. And so it only seems fitting that one day he decided to throw caution to the wind and grind through his first tattoo, a Biohazard symbol on the upper part of his left arm.

It turns out he liked that one so much he decided to get another. And so the story goes ...

“It’s something I knew I always wanted since I was a kid. I grew up around biker’s, Harley guys, and as a rock n’ roll fan, it was always the standard to have tattoos,” Moore said, who added he didn’t put years of thought into the Biohazard symbol, but that he just wanted his first tattoo.

“It reminds me of my childhood.”

Moore said his whole left sleeve was applied in a span of two years, and although it had no deep meaning for him, he has no regrets with it.

“It’s part of who I am now. I don’t use it for an esteem boost or see it as a negative, but just like a birth mark; it’s a part of who I am,” said Moore, whose daughter Isabelle thinks her dad is handsome with all his tattoos.

Moore has been around long enough to understand that not everyone agrees with the aesthetic application of artwork on his body, due to the religious restrictions concerning a clean temple or the financial burden that accompanies tattoos, but he is not one to fill his ears with that language.

“Some people consider it a sin, but in the Bible it says the body is just a shell, and these tattoos are not going with me,” Moore said, citing that different religions promote tattoos. “Society is getting better; it’s more acceptable by the day. Tattoos are common now, as I don’t know many people without one.”

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Matt Moore of Princeton shows some of his tattoos he’s acquired throughout the years.

Matty Peterson of Torrid Tattoos of Princeton is the tattoo artist behind the designs that Moore sports. “It was always the standard to have tattoos,” Moore said.

Moore considers a friendship with the artist a complementary part of the process, so that they treat a person right regardless of their opinion of the tattoo; accepting the pain during application is a necessity as well.

“I am always nervous when I get a tattoo, but I choose to put up with the pain. I’ll go through anything for something important.”

For Moore, realizing what is important these days is not hard. Matty Peterson at Torrid Tattoos is tagging the beginning stages of a sleeve on his right arm that will hold a particular purpose, even if that purpose showed up uninvited. Moore’s older brother, Kevin, tragically passed away last year, and Moore is filling his right arm as

a tribute with images that symbolize love, loss and a connection with the best friend he’ll ever have.

“It’s a remembrance for my brother, so it means everything to me. Pictures fade, but these tattoos of him will never go away.”

Moore is a kind soul full of character and color, and he will proudly display those colors regardless of his age or destination.

“Tattoos are one of the last ways to truly define yourself as an individual. Everybody’s got tattoos, but not everybody has the same ones,” he added. “It’ll probably be a giant ink blob when I’m 60, but at that point I’m not going to care whether I look good.

“It’s the path less traveled, but good or bad, I want to be myself,” he said.

Illinois Valley Living

Tattoos

From Page 19 “People are risking their health, and it drives costs way down. Quantity over quality hurts the industry.”

Peterson voiced his frustrations over those people who are holding the industry back because they don’t respect the process of legitimizing tattooing, whereas there are professional artists trying to support their families and educate the masses about health and procedural aspects rather than doing it to get wasted or make a quick buck.

“You can teach a monkey to tattoo.

Anybody can make scribbles on someone’s arm, but as far as creating art, you put your soul into it, your heart into it, and you do a good job of putting the tattoo in. There’s a difference,” he said. “It’s not difficult to put a mark in someone’s skin; it’s difficult to make that mark look good.”

Kamphaus said he’s heard horror stories about garage tattoos because they are more prone to infections and less prone to visual affection.

“When you do it at home you didn’t learn in a shop and don’t know anything aside from the basics,” he said, adding that after growing tired of retail work he stumbled into a great opportunity at a friend’s shop and started his apprenticeship there a few days later.

“This is unlike anything else I’ve ever had to do, so they’ve learned Step 1, but there’s a hundred steps.

“Good job, you got your buddy to give you a $20 tattoo when I would have charged you $80, but you gotta rock that thing for the rest of your life,” Kamphaus added. “Why not go into a professional shop because you want your buddies to say out of all of us you’ve got the coolest tattoo, and you’re not going to get that out of anybody’s garage.”

Terry said that no one under the age of 18 can be tattooed in Illinois, even with parental consent, or the artist could face a Class X felony. The consensus was there are good days — when the only boss you have to answer to stares back at you in the mirror, and there are bad days — when a customer doesn’t call, doesn’t show or misheard you say “$100” up front after you just finished a three-hour tattoo ... but such is life. The challenges, as with any profession, keep these three artists hungry and humbled to expand their industry, but it is their desire to improve lives and heighten spirits one color at a time that allows them to do just that.

“It’s an industry that’s always changing, always somebody coming up with a new way to do things,” said Terry, who always plans on having a shop, and when he can’t do it anymore, he

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said he’ll live off the people working in his shop. “The most enjoyable aspect for me is finding those people that are coming in to get something to help them cope with loss, and they’re absolutely thrilled when it’s done. It’s a great feeling, something that not everyone can give them.”

Kamphaus said he’s worried the culture is taking off a little too fast to the point where kids will see tattoos on their mom and kindergarten teacher and think that it’s not cool anymore, but he has hope the industry will steadily keep growing.

“Most days it doesn’t feel like a job; most of the time it’s just doing what I like to do and having a good time, and luckily people like to pay me for that,” he said, adding any expression from the customer that shows him that they really like their tattoo is pretty awesome. “We just have a desire to never have anybody speak a bad word about us and to do the best tattoos we can.”

“I live in the moment, been that way all my life. That’s probably another reason why I’m still doing it. It’s what I know, what I do, who I am,” said Peterson, who feels if he’s ever to the point where he thinks he’s good enough and can’t improve anymore, it’s time to stop. “It’s not about the money If it was, would have quit years ago. It’s more heart than brains.”

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It’s a cover up!

THE MYTHS OF EARLY QUILT MAKING

Story and photo by Dixie Schroeder

T

hroughout history there have been many myths, beliefs and misconceptions about quilts. In the settling of the American West, early pioneers faced many challenges, and quilting was very low on the priority list.

The American Quilt Study Group has written papers on historical events in regards to the creation of quilts, according to area expert Mary Jane Serafini. She noted the American Quilt Study Group has ties to the University of Nebraska.

“The group has shown through extensive research, that women did not talk about hand-sewing,” Serafini said. “They talked about patching to make clothing last. The reality of the situation was these wagons were so loaded down, that they actually had no room for other items.”

Mary Jane Serafini sits with a part of her quilt collection including the blue pattern most know as Fabrics were very scarce in these times the Nazi swastika but was originally known, in part, as the Fly-foot or Devil’s Puzzle pattern. and considered very non-essential, comod was the fact that quilts were used in a symbols. Our mindset today is such that pared to food, medicines, supplies to different way in the fight against slavery. this type of quilt was hanging on a wall as build shelters and take care of animals “They were made and sold at anti-slavery decoration in a restaurant in Kentucky and — all which had a much higher priority. fairs,” Serafini said. “The money that was was asked to be taken down,” she said.

What the American Quilt Study Group made in profits was given out to supply For people who collect quilts, the advice found was that women would knit.

“Knitting was something they could do clothing, food and transportation for slaves Serafini can give is simple: Find the quilts who were trying to go to freedom.” that are in the best shape possible. Many when walking along with the wagons,” History shows patterns from the 1800s quilts may have different names for the Serafini said. were used in not-so-positive ways. The patterns on them. It is good to do some Another major myth that has found Nazi swastika was actually a pattern that research to make sure and document what its way into American culture was that had been around for more than 3,000 years. a pattern on a quilt really is. slaves were told to look for certain patSerafini said the pattern was known as the Some people find quilts, refurbish them terns in quilts that would be hung in and then resell them. Others work on crehomes that were sympathetic to runaway Fly-foot pattern, the Devil’s Puzzle, Indian Emblem and the Winding Blade. ating a collection they can enjoy. Serafini slaves.

“There’s many, many, more — at least 16 emphasizes that keeping the history of each “Its a wonderful tale, but it is really other names it has gone by,” she said. quilt is very important. not historically factual. Most of the time This symbol has also been in Mayan, “The history of quilts is really amazquilts and the patterns they were talking Seatonville Oakland, Seatonville, IL culture.

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Illinois Valley Living

The library lady MARLENE ERNAT HAS BEEN AT THE UTICA PUBLIC LIBRARY FOR 56 YEARS Story by Terri Simon Photos by Kath Clark

S

he has surrounded herself with friends — 60,000 of them to be exact. They are old friends, brand new ones, classic friends and unusual.

Daily, they surround her, like good friends are known to do — embracing her, engaging her, teaching her ... and ultimately thanking her for the contribution and dedication she’s made to their lives.

Those 60,000 friends — or books on the shelves at Utica Public Library — are near and dear to Utica head librarian Marlene Ernat, who is no stranger to the world of books or the Utica Public Library.

Ernat’s legacy with the Utica Public Library began when she was 14 years old.

“I ran the library then by myself in a one-room schoolhouse. We didn’t have a telephone or water,” Ernat remembered. “I’d get up early in the morning before I went to high school and start a little oil burner, so it was warm enough for the lady who ran it during the day.”

Growing up in her family’s business — Bickerman Hardware, Ernat, now 70 years old, was no stranger to hard work.

She not only helped at the hardware store, but she also continued to run the town’s library through high school and eventually when she attended LPO Junior College. And some 50 years later, Ernat still runs the place today, though she’s quick to give a ton of credit to the staff at the library.

“Yes, I’m the head librarian, but I don’t look at it that way,” she said. “Everyone (staff) here are co-workers. We are family.”

Ernat manned that tiny library for years and continued to offer her expertise when the library moved to its current home in 1973. She will quickly tell you a library offers “the world at your fingertips,” and she’s equally eager to share the wealth with the library patrons, many who visit on a regular basis.

Actually, she knows her regular patrons inside and out. She calls them by name when they enter the library, and she already knows many of the titles they’ll be checking out. She’s especially fond of those younger readers, since she’s hoping they’ll grow into adult readers someday too.

While Ernat says technology is clearly

Illinois Valley Living

Marlene Ernat loves books — all kinds of books. But more than the books, she loves the Utica Public Library and the patrons who use it. Ernat’s life has revolved around the library for the past 56 years, and she’s not going anywhere soon. the biggest difference she’s seen in her 56 years at the Utica Public Library, she also still embraces the concept of holding a book and turning it page by page.

“I know everyone tends to push the technology, but those little joints and little eyes on the computer all day? I don’t know,” she said, adding the best way to encourage children to become lifelong readers is for them to be read to by adults and for those children to see the adults in their lives reading too.

The emphasis on youthful readers is evident at the Utica Public Library.

Shelf-after-shelf of children’s books are readily available. Puppets, games, bright colors and lots of smiles compliment the extensive programs offered for area youth. Ernat said she has only one rule for the children who enter the library: No running! Other than that, the world of books is there for them to explore.

“We are very open to children, as you can tell,” she said. “I have a (library) board that has always been approachable — always.”

So which author is a favorite for a woman who has worked in a library for 56 years?

Ernat just smiles and shakes her head ...

“You have to remember one thing when you’re here,” she said. “The

authors we choose aren’t about what I like. I can’t choose just what I like to read. I have to think about all the different types of patrons when you order books.”

OK ... so what kind of books line the shelves at Ernat’s home? Again, the question generated a smile.

“Except for Peter Rabbit, I have no books at home,” she said, adding she is surrounded by titles every day when she comes to work.

In love with books and the local library, you’d imagine Ernat reading for hours on end in her spare time, and her smile told the story, even though she didn’t really want to answer the question.

“I don’t really want to say. If I did, people would think all I do is read. Let’s just say I read every day — a lot,” she said, adding her favorite past time are her gardening and flower beds.

Utica Mayor Gloria Alvarado, who also works at the library, was quick to comment about Ernat’s work there.

“This is her love,” Alvarado said. “She has always done this job because she loves it. Even when she is on vacation, she checks in. It’s a labor of love for her.”

Ernat would disagree.

“Working at the library is entertainment for me. It’s really not a job,” she said.

23

Getting ‘Inspired’ TISKILWA NATIVE CREATES LUGGAGE LINE Story by Goldie Currie Photos are contributed

H

ow many times have you heard someone talk about their toiletry items exploding all over their bag during a trip, and the experience almost ruined the whole vacation?

It bothered Tiskilwa native, Kristin Rae Ori so much she decided to put her creative side to the test and design a product that would carry all her toiletry items and ensure a 100 percent leak-proof travel adventure.

Her unique prototype did more than that, however, it also inspired her to start-up a business and create a whole luggage line, so others, too, could prevent having to tell “liquid explosive” stories.

“Our bags are essentially the updated ‘train case’ and a long overdue solution for traveling with toiletry products,” Ori explained. “And while travel sizes might be fine for some, they are unrealistic for most, especially families and long-term travelers.”

The luggage line is still a new item on the market, as it just launched last July, but it can be found on online retail giants such as Overstock, Amazon and Wayfair.

It got it’s name, Inspire Travel Lug-

gage, from Ori’s love to travel and become inspired by new places and things.

“When I thought of how our bags made traveling simpler by allowing people to pickup and Kristin Rae Ori go, it would inspire travel,” she explained.

Ori, who is now located in Bloomington, is a graduate of Princeton High School. She grew up on a farm, where her parents encouraged her to get a college education.

Wanting to use her creative side, she decided to study fashion design at Illinois State University. Her design background has certainly played a big role in her endeavor.

“It took two years to launch, but it was important all the while to build the company the way it would work best for me,” Ori said. “Inspire Travel Luggage

is a commerce retailer of its own private label and patent-pending line of cosmetic and toiletry luggage.”

Her company also functions as a boutique design firm and sourcing consultant.

Ori admits her new endeavor has had its challenges, but overall it’s been rewarding.

“I’m thankful that I have the opportunity to own my own company and continue to stay at home with my beautiful daughter,” she said. “Being a workat-home mom has its pros and cons, but I have worked very hard to keep a business model that would work for my family.”

Some days are tougher than others, but Ori said taking time to plan, strategize and research saves time down the road when the pressure is on.

“While I have had some major success, I have also had some major failures,” she admitted. “But I continue to educate myself and make my own way, and that is something I’m really proud of.”

In the next five years, Ori hopes to take her full-line luggage products to the shelves of major retailers. With some already expressing interest, it’s more than likely we will see that happen.

“With the support of our loyal fans, we will definitely get there,” she said.

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‘I lived in constant fear ...

We lost all our freedoms’ VEENSTRA: ‘A LIFETIME OF EXPERIENCES’

Story and photos by Donna Barker

T

he year was 1939; the month was August; the country was the Netherlands; and Alberta Kort was 10 years old.

Sitting now in the comfort of her Princeton apartment, Alberta (Kort) Veenstra folds her hands, looks into the distance, and begins her memories, remembering the time when war came to her country.

The German Dictator Adolf Hitler had gone into Austria and Poland, and the people of the Netherlands knew their country was next, Veenstra said.

Though it is more than 70 years later, Veenstra recalls the exact date, May 10, 1940, when they heard the shooting and the airplanes coming. It was early in the morning when the Germans entered the Netherlands. The Germans started “shooting the heart out of the big port city,” where materials would come into the city and then be transported further into Europe.

“We fought for five days, and then we heard the news come out of the radio that the Germans had occupied the Netherlands.”

German soldiers came into her town of Bilthoven with conestoga-type wagons and cannons pulled by horses.

That time was not easy, Veenstra said.

All their food was now on coupon, and there was very little of it. Most of the food, especially the sugar and the butter, went to Germany. And then there were the German soldiers.

Alberta Veenstra of Princeton has memories most of us can never imagine. Living as a child in the Netherlands during World War II, she recalls a myriad of events surrounding the invasion by Germany into her homeland.

As did other families, Veenstra’s mother had to quarter two German soldiers in her home, supplying them with room, beds, bedding and food. The soldiers would come home drunk time after time. This was not the life her mother wanted for her children, Veenstra said.

One day, her mother went to the German officer and told him she was a widow with four children, and they were not used to having people coming home

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drunk. She wanted those soldiers “to be relieved from my home,” and they were.

Her mother was a woman of great courage and faith, Veenstra said.

For a while, the family was without a soldier in their home, but then another young soldier came to live there for a long time, Veenstra said. He would come down into the dining room and have coffee with her mother each evening. He would talk about getting married to his fiance back home.

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Her mother was also expected to nurse back to health any German soldiers who had been injured in battles with Russia, Veenstra said. Once, there was an 18-yearold German soldier who asked her mother for some civilian clothes, so he could leave.

But her mother told the soldier no, she wouldn’t put her family in danger that way.

But the soldier then asked her mother to write a letter to his mother to let her know he was OK, which Veenstra’s mother did.

Later, she received a letter back from the soldier’s mother.

There were Jewish people in the neighborhood.

“We saw the neighbors taken out of their houses. The men shackled together and taken to the railroad station to go to the concentration camp. Every single one of them. Whole families were taken to concentration camps. We heard the screaming women and children in cattle cars, headed to gas chambers.”

With that memory, Veenstra looks away again and is silent for a while, before continuing.

The Germans would also gather the young men from the country, who weren’t Jewish, and take them to Germany to work in the factories. Veenstra had two older brothers.

Her brothers went into hiding, into the underground. Trap doors in the house were covered by a rug. Tunnels were hidden below the kitchen floor because it was the thickest floor and couldn’t be shot through as easily.

“But early one morning in 1940, the doorbell rang, and my mother went downstairs. The soldiers wanted to know where my brothers were. They named them by name. Mother said she hadn’t seen them since yesterday, one had gone to the university and the other had gone for technical school. But the soldiers searched the house.

“They went to the bedroom to feel if the bed was warm and if my brother had slept there. They went to the wash basin to see if wash cloths were wet. They searched the whole house, closets and everywhere, to see where my brothers might be hiding.

“At the time, my oldest brother had come back to the house to get his clothes to leave

Veenstra said.

“It was not a very happy time,” she said.

“I lived in constant fear, for my family, for myself. We lost all our freedoms. We were fighting for survival. We always hoped that something would happen, but we lived in fear. We had to survive.”

In time, Veenstra and her mother were able to move to the eastern part of the country, more farmland, where her married sister lived. But still there was not enough food What seemed like all at once, the morning came when humongous tanks came A variety of keepsakes owned by Alberta Veenstra of Princeton keep the memories of through her area, and it was the Canadians, Veenstra said. Her part of Holland was libdays gone by alive. erated on April 15, 1945, by the Canadians.

She and her mother stayed on the farm for for his permanent place for hiding. My a while longer, eventually heading back to mother stood in front of his suitcase with the hometown. her housecoat flared out to hide the suitBut Canadian soldiers now lived in their case. The solider smelled cigarette smoke. home, their big house. The little library, My mother said it was my older sister with its French doors, in the basement of smoking. My mother had an answer for the house had been used by the Germans every question. as a stable for their horses. The Canadians “Then the soldiers went to the attic used the library for their jeeps. When Veenwhere my brother had slept. The window stra’s family finally got their house back, ledge was open. My mother said the latch doesn’t close anymore. But my brother had they went from the attic to the basement, sweeping the junk down. There were holes gone out the window and was laying flat, in the walls. There were no door knobs. in the ice and snow in his undershorts, to where the roof top joined the next roof top. Drain pipes were cut.

Growing up during a war is not an easy If the soldier had gone out the window, my mother said she would have pushed him in thing to do, Veenstra said.

“My youth was not a free life. We didn’t order to save her son.” go to dances. We didn’t go out anywhere.

Life was hard and getting harder — no We had to work for survival.” coal for heat and very little food, Veenstra After the war, at age 21, Veenstra married said. and moved with her husband to the United School was basically non-existent for States, where they raised their family. She her and the other children in the town, has been back several times to the NetherVeenstra said. They might go one day to lands, but now that her family is all gone, get assignments and then go back another there’s no reason to go back again, she said. week.

Once again looking off into the distance, “It was too dangerous to go. The kids were hungry, not suitable for learning. A lot Veenstra said living through a war is something not easily forgotten and her memoof the schools had been taken over as barries could fill a book. Loud bangs still scare racks for the soldiers.” her. She understands something of what The time came when Veenstra and her mother had to totally evacuate their house some soldiers go through when they return from war. and turn it over to the German soldiers.

“I was just a child. I was 16 when the war The whole block had to leave because the was over, but I had lived a lifetime of expesoldiers would be quartered in the houses. riences,” she said. “I want my story to help Forced to move to a much smaller house, others to understand that time.” the shooting and the bombing got worse,

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Button, button, who’s got the button?

BILL ELLENA DOES! Story and photos Ken Schroeder

T

he year 1962 was extraordinary for several reasons. It was the year of the Cuban Missile Crisis; John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth; and Johnny Carson took over the “Tonight Show.” Coincidentally, Granville’s Bill Ellena started collecting political buttons that year, a hobby that’s kept him busy ever since.

“I was sitting at the kitchen table in Jeff Jeppson’s kitchen having coffee, and we were talking about election buttons,” Ellena said. “He said, ‘I’ve got a collection; would you like to see it?’ So he showed me part of his collection and a little later, he said, ‘This is a nice hobby, and it’s not very expensive to start. Would you like to try it?’ So he went to the closet and brought me five or six nice buttons and said, ‘Here, get started,’ and I was hooked.”

Ellena has pins starting at the last election and continuing back from there with pins from the Teddy Roosevelt and William H. Taft campaigns in his collection. Along the way, he’s picked up not only buttons but other memorabilia as well. A set of pins sits in a section by themselves. Looking at them from different directions presents different images on each pin.

“Those are flasher pins. These are the most expensive ones,” Ellena said.

“One, I think the last time I looked, was worth $75. They don’t make those anymore. Too expensive.”

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Above is just a small part of the hundreds of political buttons and memorabilia Granville’s Bill Ellena has collected during the 50-plus years he’s been in the hobby.

At left, Ellena has several old pins and some flasher buttons that change according to the direction a viewer sees them from.

Ellena said he has more than a thousand pins in his collection, mostly from national elections, with some state and local buttons as well. Most of his collection was gathered in the early days of the hobby, but it’s not growing as fast as it used to.

“They’re getting difficult to find. People are not putting money into buttons now.

The majority of the money today goes into television advertising,” Ellena said. “They find they can reach more people, especially in the state and national level. Locally, you still find some.”

One of the prizes in Ellena’s collection comes from the Teddy Roosevelt campaign, a metallic cloisonne lapel pin in the shape of a moose.

“This is one of my favorites; it’s from the Bull Moose election. That is an original; it is not a fake,” Ellena said. “A friend of mine had two, and he gave me one.

“A friend of mine from town was a representative for Dan Walker when he ran.

Everyone who was a campaign chairman got one of these pins and the ‘pair of shoes’ pin,” he said.

Ellena said the toughest button for him to track down came from the Walter Mondale-Geraldine Ferraro campaign. The pin was not an “official” button but gained a wide popularity due to its “adult” nature.

“A friend of mine got this during that campaign,” Ellena said. “They didn’t make a lot of them.”

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Bill Ellena poses with part of his political button collection.

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29

At right, a group of Illinois Valley Women Runners gets ready to start on their evening run/jog on one of their courses in LaSalle. The group has a variety of courses as well as a variety of skill levels, when it comes to these runners. Below, the group posed for a fun photo before taking off on their trek.

‘We run faster than your mascara’ ILLINOIS VALLEY WOMEN RUNNERS ATTRACT WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE Story and photos by Goldie Currie

Princeton, Oglesby, Utica and more.

Women from all walks of life joined in on the fun — even those who had never f you’ve ever been hanging out in run before. the Illinois Valley and witnessed Jill Urban-Borris, who is an avid mema huge group of women run by, ber of group, explained there’s more all wearing matching brightly-colored to it than just running. For her, it’s a shirts, it was most likely the Illinois Valmotivational group, where women build ley Women Runners on a mission. friendships.

The running group meets weekly — “For some, it’s therapy because we can rain, snow, sleet or shine — and can be get it out and talk about it on the road seen out and about in various locations and don’t have to take it home with us,” throughout the area. she said. “I never was a runner before, The group is relatively new and headbut always watched people run in races ed by Anastacia Ross, who claims she Anastacia Ross, organizer of the group, says and thought it was really cool. I never wasn’t a runner herself before bringing she wasn’t a runner herself before bringing thought I could do it until I tried this.” the runners together. the group together.

Some of the women are there for a “I wasn’t the kind of person who social life; others are there needing a would run normally,” she said. “I knew if at Starved Rock came to an end one stress reliever; and some are training for I was running alone, I wouldn’t be able year. an upcoming marathon or 5K. to keep it going. I’m also not a group “I went out on a limb and figured I If you talk with any of the running regexercise person, but I really like running could get about 30 women out here to ulars of the group, they will tell you it’s a in a group. My husband said it’s a pack run each week,” she said. To her surmotivational club and very encouraging. instinct that we have.” prise, the club quickly attracted 170 They say if it wasn’t for the women in Ross became inspired to start IV women from all over the Illinois Valley, Women Runners after the running clinic including Marseilles, Peru, Spring Valley, the group, they would have never kept

I

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Illinois Valley Living

their exercise up. Some even admit they run with the group to avoid running on the treadmill, which they have dubbed the “dreadmill.”

“Everyone is supportive of each other.

There’s days when you’re in the front of the pack, and others when you’re at the back,” Ross said. “It’s friendly competition. No one gets left behind.”

The group is currently looking for beginner runners, or those who run at a slower pace.

“Anyone is welcome and can show up when they want. There’s no fee.

It’s about running at your own risk,” Ross said. “If you can’t make it for two months for some reason, you’re always welcome to come back when you can.”

Times and locations of runs can be found on the “IV Women Runners” Facebook page.

The ladies involved in the Illinois Valley Women Runners come from differing skill levels.

The group is always looking for more friends to join in the fun — especially beginning runners or those who like to run at a slower pace.

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At right, Dave Sawatoski (front) and Gary Moreland review the different components of the Braille Block boxes the group makes.

Below, Woodcrafters Unlimited have a set of stamps they use to put the letter or number of the Braille Block they create on the back of each individual piece.

Seeing a need WOODCRAFTERS UNLIMITED CREATE BRAILLE BLOCKS Story and photos by Dixie Schroeder

be made. Group member Don Troglio of Putnam County even made a small tool that helped in the application of the pins he story of Woodcrafters Unlimthe blocks use. Before that, the blocks took ited’s Braille Blocks project goes a lot longer to create. back more than 15 years.

Upon entering “Braille Blocks Central” “The whole thing started with an article in Wood Magazine. This was back in 1999,” at Sawatoski’s home in Princeton, one is struck by simplicity and organization. To Dave Sawatoski said. “This fella wrote one side are individual tool stations that the article on turning scraps of wood into can be manned to cut, sculpt and carve teaching tools.” out the blocks. On the other side is a table The article, written by a man from Iowa, with school pencil-sized boxes to hold the talked about the need for Braille Blocks. individual blocks and postal boxes to mail Braille is the language by which blind people read. Louis Braille created the tactile them.

Group member Bob Folty of LaSalle language system around 1824.

Woodcrafters Unlimited, who has mem- County said, “Dave (Sawatoski) and Gary (Moreland) took it, (the Braille Blocks bers from throughout the Illinois Valley, project) from the ground floor. It is a really liked the article and started making sets of good project.” the Braille Blocks. It was a lot of trial and Woodworkers Unlimited has its own error as to what worked and what did not. “how to” booklet for making the Braille At first the blocks were made with buttons Blocks. They were published as well in instead of the pins they use now. Those Workbench Magazine. The group had also buttons were removable, which caused sent information on their project to othsome problems. ers who have asked about it, as well as the Other ideas were tried like word racks, Make a Difference Foundation in Springbut that process slowed down their ability to make the Braille Blocks. They also made field.

“They give out awards for clubs or people wooden boxes for the letters to be held in, that make a difference in people’s lives. We but that made it much heavier and more got a $2,500 award for making the Braille costly to mail the kits.

Once the group got the fine details down, Blocks for the blind from the state of Illinois. We then sent the money to the Hadley the Braille Blocks began to roll off their assembly line. In one morning, for example School for the Blind in Winnetka,” Moreland said, who resides in Princeton.

— with just a handful of woodworkers, The Hadley School for the Blind has been more than 25 sets of the Braille Blocks can

T

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distributors for the Woodcrafters Unlimited Braille Blocks’ project. To date the group has given out more than 2,100 units. Tom Polk of Winnetka is the production manager and notes the school has benefitted from their partnership.

“They are a bunch of retired gentlemen who are doing something good,” Polk said.

“They make the block sets and our teachers all over the world ask for units to be sent out to them to work with the families that they teach.”

Both Moreland and Sawatoski have been personally motivated to spearhead this project.

“My grandfather was blind; he could barely see. We played cards with him as a kid. He had a little side vision. So we played with the big letter cards. We would play Pitch with him for hours. I was barely big enough to set in a chair,” Moreland said.

“There is a vision support group at St. Margaret’s Hospital ,and we furnished some Braille Blocks for them along with our puzzles,” Sawatoski said.

Woodcrafters Unlimited also makes some tic-tac-toe tactile games they also send to the Hadley School. The members are a group that always want to get better with their projects for the blind.

“We are always brainstorming about something. We ask each other if there is anyway to translate a new game or do what we do better,” Moreland said. “Their life is pretty plain without it.”

Illinois Valley Living

The group also makes interactive puzzles and games for blind people like this tic-tac-toe game.

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Saving St. Thomas More ... ... ONE TORTELLINI AT A TIME Story by Goldie Currie Photos by Kath Clark

M

embers of St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Dalzell are eager for a positive outcome.

Since last summer, the parish has been on the brink of being merged with Holy Trinity Catholic Parish in Cherry and faced with the possibility of losing their church.

With uncertainty of what’s to come this July — when parishioners will find out whether or not they will be able to keep their church — they’ve decided to step-up and prove their church home is worth saving.

With high hopes, members have been working on their most popular fundraiser to help raise donation dollars for the collection basket.

Last summer, the Rev. Patrick Fixsen announced if the parish could double the weekly collection and find a way to fill its pews during Mass, it might be able to avoid the merge.

The members have jumped at this small glimmer of hope and have given up their mornings every Monday, Wednesday and Friday since November to produce handmade tortellini, which are sold by the pound.

Active member Carlo Olivero has voiced his desires to keep the church doors open.

“We’re praying for a miracle, and the main thing is we want to continue operations after July,” he said. “A lot of people in town think we’re just Carlo Olivero dumps a board filled with tortellini to dry before they can be packaged in one-pound bags. Olivero and others gather weekly to make the tortellini as a fundraiser to spinning our wheels, but we’re just keep their beloved St. Thomas More Church open. really trying here.”

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While at one time St. Thomas More held three full Masses weekly, it is now down to one.

“And we’re lucky to have 25 at the one Mass,” Olivero said. “It’s sad. We’d love to have more people back here.”

Every week, volunteers from all around the Illinois Valley gather to hand-cut and twist each piece of tortellini sold in a package.

One pound sells for $6.

The volunteers are heading into their fifth month of the fundraiser. While final numbers have not yet concluded, the fundraiser in the past has been known to raise $15,000.

“Hopefully as long as we continue making money, we will save this church,” Olivero said.

At the end of December — just one month into the fundraiser— 672 pounds of tortellini had been sold, and $4,032 was collected.

All orders are processed through one woman, Mary Jean Goodrick. With just a

notebook and calculator, she is the sole organizer of all orders.

While Goodrick refuses to eat the tortellini at this point in the fundraiser because she doesn’t want to take away from the orders, she said the feedback on the tortellini has been quite overwhelming.

The tortellini are a hot item, and there are stories about them being to sent to family and friends all around the country.

Many have reordered after they tried their first batch,and talk about reordering around the holidays to share with family. People have already been asking for the upcoming Easter holiday.

“The people say they just have never had tortellini like this before,” she said.

“The response has been amazing.”

And as long as the tortellini keep selling, the members will keep twisting.

To order a batch, call Goodrick at 815-664-4615.

Our family serving your family and the greater Princeton community since 1903

Pam Domkuski (left), Mary Goodrick and Liz Olivero display a few of the hand-cut and twisted bags of tortellini made during the past several months. Each one-pound bag sells for only $6. Folks from throughout the Illinois Valley are helping to make the tortellini in hopes of saving St. Thomas More in Dalzell.

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There’s no shortage of food and there’s no shortage of people at the Wyanet VFW’s monthly chicken fry, held at the VFW Hall. From fried chicken and french fries to cole slaw, baked beans, potato salad and their famous garlic bread and more ... nobody ever goes away hungry from this popular meal.

Wyanet VFW Chicken Fry — A community affair

CHICKEN, CHICKEN AND MORE CHICKEN ... AND MORE Story and photos by Nita Wyatt

the small VFW Post and its buildings a viable part of the community.

Speaking with long-time VFW ith the exception of July and members Francis “Stormy” Day and December, the second Saturday of each month holds a fury Bob Oloffson is like taking a walk of activity at the Wyanet VFW Post 6634. through history — not just of the Actually, the activity begins on Thursday VFW Post but also the chicken fry. of that week with the culmination of the Day was, until two years ago, the go-to man for the fry. He organized, effort ending on Saturday. ordered the food and worked every It’s the Wyanet VFW Chicken Fry. second Saturday for 43 years to help Since 1971, the VFW has held this monthly event to raise money to keep make it a success. Now 90 years old,

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Day decided to turn over the reins of the fry to someone a little younger.

During his tenure, he never missed one chicken fry.

Oloffson, the Quartermaster for the VFW Post, said the first chicken fry took in $116, and the only items on the menu were chicken and French fries. Today, an average chicken fry, which boasts an extended menu, can bring in between $2,500 and $4,000 each month.

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The VFW Post in Wyanet was originally formed in 1946 with 65 charter members.

The original members in Wyanet served in World War II. Now, the membership is made up of Korean, Vietnam, and the Gulf and Afghanistan conflict veterans.

The membership has dwindled from a peak of 130 veterans to around 70. That decline in membership has made the continuation of the chicken fry a community project.

These days, Rich Cambron, a Vietnam war veteran, is the person in charge of ordering the products and organizing the fry. Cambron orders 200 precut chickens, which translates to 1,600 pieces of chicken served in a single night. He also orders enough potatoes to make 100 pounds of potato salad, plus he orders cole slaw, beans, bacon, French fries and bread.

Only three members of the VFW actually work at the fry these days — Cambron, Steven “Bingo” Day and Oloffson. The rest of the preparation, cooking and serving is done by an army of volunteers. It takes numerous people doing numerous jobs to pull the chicken fry off.

Some of the volunteers have a history with the Wyanet Post. Bingo Day’s young grandson, Isaac Whitford, lends a hand at the dishwashing station. There is Janet A group of volunteers gathers every month to begin the preparations for the Wyanet VFW Mueller, part-time cashier on Saturday Chicken Fry, including those who peel potatoes (pictured above), make other side items night, and her sons, Jeff and John. Jeff and and prepare the chicken for frying. Other volunteers take telephone orders and prepare John are known as the “French fry boys.” the massive amount of take-out meals on the day of the chicken fry, which is typically the See Chicken Fry Page 38 second Saturday of the month.

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Francis “Stormy” Day is a legend when it comes to the Wyanet VFW Chicken Fry. For many, many years — more than 40 years — Day was the go-to guy for the chicken fry as he organized, ordered the food and worked the event.

Chicken Fry

From Page 37 Also with family ties to the Post are mother and son, Jan and Gary Christian. Jan’s father was one of the charter members of the Post, and her husband, Jim Christian, was a member and supporter of the chicken fry. For many years Jim made the salads and beans for the monthly event. Jan is now among the volunteers who arrive at the Post building on Thursday to begin the prep work for the 100 pounds of potato salad. Gary has made his way up the ranks throughout the years. He started as a teenager carrying trays of food up the stairs from the basement kitchen to now actually being one of the chicken fry cooks.

Ken Sutherland also has family ties to the VFW. His father was a member of the Post, and now his son is a member.

Sutherland and his wife boil and peel the eggs for the potato salad, and he arrives at 5:30 a.m. on Thursday mornings to get the potatoes cooking for the 100 pounds of potato salad. Sutherland also helps fry the chicken on Saturday nights.

So what’s the menu? You won’t be disappointed. The all-you-can-eat menu consists of fried chicken, barbecued chicken, French fries, potato salad, cole slaw, baked beans, three-bean salad and garlic bread.

M.R. Holmbeck, d.V.M. B.R. Sondgeroth, d.V.M. c.M. Schelkopf, d.V.M.

Volunteer Russell Nora knows a thing or two about how to prepare the Wyanet VFW’s famous garlic bread, but he’s not willing to share that secret. Nora said the recipe belongs to his brother and has a lot to do with the amount and quality of butter used ... but that’s all he’s saying.

Volunteer Russell Nora knows some of the secrets of the great food served at the monthly chicken fry, but he’s not so quick to share. The delicious garlic bread served is truly a secret recipe, but he did divulge it was his brother Jeff’s recipe and this event-goer favorite has much to do with the amount and quality of the butter used.

And then there’s those baked beans ... People have been talking about the beans for years. Nora said the beans’ great flavor might just have something to do with the smoked bacon ends the VFW Post buys from the Wyanet Locker next door.

Nora also spoke of his sister-in-law, Mary Nora, who is in charge of the carryout operation, which sends between 100 and 150 orders out the door during each chicken fry, and the many volunteers who come to set up tables and chairs, stock coolers, clean chickens, and more ...

a.M. adams, d.V.M. K.a. Reed, d.V.M.

Customers of the chicken fry come from all around the area. The public is welcome. Many folks who have moved away even plan their return to Wyanet so it coincides with a monthly chicken fry.

VFW Post Commander Ralph Anderson, commended the members and the more than 30 volunteers who continue to make the chicken fry a success. The proceeds from the chicken fry not only helps with expenses related to maintaining the buildings, but also provides for donations and awards in which the Post is involved.

The price is $9 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-12. Children 5 and under are free.

So there you have ... great food, served by great people, who are supporting veterans. Head on over to Wyanet. You’ll be glad you did!

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Illinois Valley Living

All aboard ...

MARVIN STROM HAS HAD A LIFELONG PASSION FOR TRAINS Story and photos by Lyle Ganther

A

lifelong fascination with train sets for Marvin Strom of Princeton has led to four different train sets now set up in the basement of his home.

“I remember as a 3 year old my parents had a train set around our Christmas tree,” said Strom, a retired pastor, who moved to Princeton in December 2004 after serving for many years at churches, mainly in the state of Ohio.

Strom’s 1942 Christmas kindled a hobby that grew to such proportions he had to have a basement large enough in a home in Princeton to display the train sets and other items he collected over time — seven decades later after that first Marvin Strom poses with his Chicago-themed train set, complete with a skyline and a memory. miniature Soldier Field, Wrigley Field and other landmarks. Strom’s trains occupy a good portion of his Princeton basement.

See Strom Page 40

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Strom

From Page 39 “This (1942) train set was the last of Lionel trains that the company made since a switch was made in 1943 due to World War II where the company made other items for the war effort,” he said.

As a child, Strom said his family took train trips, one from Chicago to Jersey City and one from Chicago to Los Angeles when the family moved to the West Coast. He also took a train to South Dakota in 1954 for him to spend a summer on a relative’s farm.

One of Strom’s three sons, Brian, is the pastor of the Christ Community Church in Princeton while the other two sons live in the Chicago area.

“We decided to move to Illinois because our sons all lived here,” he said. “I started putting together all the train sets memorabilia I have collected over the years, since most of them had never been taken out of the boxes during our moves.”

After taking a train trip from Princeton to Chicago in 2011, Strom decided to build a train set with a Chicago theme since he is a Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears fan. He made a miniature Soldier Fold — the home of the Bears, and Wrigley Field — the home of the Cubs, as part of his set. He also made other Chicago buildings commemorating his love of the Bears and Cubs.

Strom said another plus to his train hobby is that his grandchildren love coming to his Princeton home to play with the four different size train sets.

40

Above, Chicago’s Soldier Field is an important part of the train display depicting Chicago and area landmarks. Below, Wrigley Field is pictured from the same display. Strom built all the structures and enjoys how his train circles the “city.” Strom’s love for trains was developed when he was a small child, and he has taken that love into adulthood, where he enjoys sharing his passion with his grandchildren.

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41 2014Spring_LoveofShoes_color.indd 1

3/13/2014 3:27:25 PM

SWEET TREATS FOR A SWEET SPRING SEASON

By Illinois Valley Recipe Columnist Judy Dyke

S

pring brings much needed color to our world, and there’s nothing quite so colorful as that wiggly, jiggly fun-filled Jell-O. Jell-O has been a guest at many a party and gathering. Especially in spring, when Easter, Mother’s Day, graduation and other parties are plentiful, enjoy some of these cool and colorful dishes on your party table.

Judy Dyke

7 Up Lime Salad 1 3-ounce package lime Jell-O 1 cup boiling water 1 8-ounce package cream cheese 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 small can crushed pineapple 1 tablespoon sugar 1 small bottle 7-up or 1 cup Mix Jell-O and boiling water. Blend in cream cheese (while Jell-O is very hot). Add vanilla, pineapple, sugar and 7 Up. After Jell-O set partially, add nuts.

Cherry Chiffon Jell-O 2 3-ounce packages cherry Jell-O 1 can pitted dark sweet cherries, drained 2 cups Cool Whip 1 1/2 cups boiling water, dissolved 2 cups ice cubes, divided Dissolve 1 package of Jell-O in 3/4 cup boiling water. Add 1 cup ice cubes. Stir until thickened, remove unmelted ice cubes. Stir in cherries. Pour into 5-cup mold, sprayed with Pam. Refrigerate.

Dissolve other package of Jell-O in 3/4 cup boiling water. Add 1 cup ice cubes. Stir until thickened, remove unmelted ice cubes. Fold in Cool Whip.

Pour over other layer. Refrigerate 1 hour or until set. Unmold and serve.

Cherry Ribbon Salad 1 3-ounce package cherry gelatin 2 1/4 cups boiling water, divided 1 21-ounce can cherry pie filling 1 3-ounce package orange gelatin 1 8-ounce can crushed pineapple, undrained 1 cup whipped topping 1/3 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup chopped pecans In a bowl, dissolve cherry gelatin in 1 1/4 cups boiling water. Stir in pie filling. Pour into a 7-cup ring mold coated with nonstick cooking spray, refrigerate until set but not firm, about 1 hour.

Meanwhile in a bowl, dissolve orange gelatin in remaining boiling water. Stir in pineapple.

Chill until thickened but not set, about 1 hour.

Combine the whipped topping, mayonnaise and pecans. Fold into orange mixture. Spoon over cherry layer. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm. Unmold onto a serving plate. Serves 12.

42

Gelatin Dessert Squares 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans 1/4 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup butter, melted 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened 3/4 cup sugar 1 8-ounce carton frozen whipped topping, thawed 2 3-ounce packages raspberry gelatin 2 cups boiling water 2 cups cold water In a bowl, combine the flour, pecans and brown sugar; stir in butter. Press into an ungreased 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Bake at 350° for 10 to 13 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on a wire rack. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over crust. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour. In a bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water, stir in cold water. Spoon over the cream cheese layer. Refrigerate until firm. Cut into squares. Serves 12 to 16.

Illinois Valley Living

Jell-O Salad

Layered Gelatin 1 3-ounce package lime gelatin 1 cup boiling water 1/3 cup unsweetened pineapple juice 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained Cream Cheese Layer 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin 2 tablespoons cold water 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened 1/3 cup milk Berry Layer 2 3-ounce packages strawberry gelatin 2 cups boiling water 1 14-ounce can whole berry cranberry sauce Cool Whip Dissolve lime gelatin in boiling water. Stir in pineapple juice. Stir in pineapple. Pour into an 11-by-7-inch dish. Refrigerate until set. In a small saucepan, sprinkle unflavored gelatin over cold water. Let stand for 1 minute. Heat over low heat, stirring until gelatin is completely dissolved.

Transfer to a small bowl. Beat in cream cheese.

And milk until smooth. Spread over lime layer.

Refrigerate until set. Dissolve strawberry gelatin in boiling water, stir in cranberry sauce. Cool for 10 minutes. Carefully spoon over cream cheese layer.

Refrigerate until set. Cut into squares. Garnish with Cool Whip. Serves 10.

1 pound cottage cheese 1 small Cool Whip 1 3-ounce Jell-O, any flavor 1 small can fruit to go along with Jell-O flavor Blend together cottage cheese, Cool Whip, dry Jell-O and fruit. You can add nuts, coconut or cherries if you so desire. Goes well with any meat entrée.

Orange Gelatin Pretzel Salad 2 cups crushed pretzels 3 teaspoons plus 3/4 cup sugar, divided 3/4 cup butter, melted 2 3-ounce packages orange gelatin 2 cups boiling water 2 8-ounce cans crushed pineapple, drained 1 11-ounce can mandarin oranges, drained 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened 2 cups whipped topping Additional whipped topping In a small bowl, combine pretzels and 3 teaspoons sugar, stir in butter. Press into an ungreased 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Bake at 350° for 10 minutes. Cool on a wire rack. In a large bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water. Add pineapple and oranges. Chill until partially set, about 30 minutes. In a small mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and remaining sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over crust. Gently spoon gelatin mixture over cream cheese layer. Cover and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours or until firm. Cut into squares. Garnish with additional whipped topping. Serves 15.

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Signs of spring AN OPPORTUNITY FOR A SECOND CHANCE Story by Terri Simon Photos by Dick Todd

W

e yearn for them. We wait for them. They are those tender and gentle elements that arrive without fail every year. We call them the signs of spring, but we know they are much more than that.

From the robins who appear unexpectedly to those darn dandelions that can cause gardeners grief to the tender buds that appear suddenly on bare branches, the signs of spring offer us a promise ... and that promise translates to a second chance.

Spring offers us the opportunity to look at life anew, to cherish what our world offers us, to kick winter to the curb and focus on a new season, filled with all the wonder around us. A second chance — a new beginning for all. May spring bring you a bouquet of all good things, and may this season warm your soul.

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Illinois Valley Living Journal Story by Terri Simon Photo by Kath Clark

would begin selecting the flowers, and our job, as children, would be to take the can or jar to the pump in the cemetery and fill it with water. Careful y grandmother loved flownot spill a drop, we’d return to the car, ers, and particularly around where Grandma arranged the blooms.

Memorial Day, I can still see her with a bucket of water, a pair of scis- Without a word, she’d deliver the arrangement in front of the grave. We’d sors, and a couple of grandkids at her look for a minute or two — as children side. We’d walk the long line of irises we stood there admiring our efforts, and peony bushes, and she’d select the while I’m sure the adults were thinking very best. She’d snip each one carefully more about days gone by. and hand the long fragile stems to us.

And then we’d get in the Chevy, and Carefully, we’d place them in the bucket, without fail, Grandma would always pick up the container, and follow her deliver the same message: “Whatever around the yard. We did it every year. you do, always remember to take care But that bucket filled with those oldof the graves.” She said it after every fashioned irises and peonies wasn’t stop, at every grave, every year to everymeant for a vase inside the house or a one in the car but especially to her neighbor who needed a nice surprise. grandchildren. It was important to her, Instead, those flowers were meant for and she wanted it to be important to us the cemetery and our family’s annual too.

Memorial Day observance.

And it is.

With the flower-filled buckets in the This year will be like many in the trunk of the old green Chevy, we’d also past. My mom and I will head out to pack the aluminum foil-covered coffee the cemeteries. Instead of a bucket and cans and mayonnaise jars. The ride to fresh flowers, we’ll have artificial ones town would be rather quiet; after all, in the trunk. We’ll place beautiful vases this was a somber affair. In town, we’d of flowers at all the graves, and somedrive to each family member’s grave, where during our trek, my mom will and the same “ceremony” would take say, “Grandma always said, ‘Whatever place. you do, always remember to take care We didn’t slam the doors to the Chevy. No, that would be disrespectful. of the graves.’”

And we will — Grandpa’s and GrandWe closed them quietly, and Grandpa ma’s grave included. would unlock the trunk. Grandma

M

46

What I wouldn’t give today to invite Grandma over to my garden. I’d go get the bucket and fill it with water. I’d grab a pair of clippers for her, and she’d head to my garden with her granddaughter at her side.

Like I did as a child, I’d watch her face as she admired each stem, and I’d take mental lessons as she clipped each flower.

On the way to the cemetery, we’d probably stop for a cup of coffee at the local cafe, and we’d chat and chat about this and that. We’d check our watches and eventually head to the cemetery, where again we would decorate the graves as we did years ago. Like we did back then, we’d make several stops at relatives’ graves — many who I never knew. And just like she’d say years ago, we’d get back in the car and she’d get a faraway look in her eyes before she’d quietly say, “Whatever you do, always remember to take care of the graves.”

Memorial Day should be a special time.

My hope is there are children in this country who will hear and remember the same words Grandma said to us ... “Whatever you do ...”

Illinois Valley Living Editor Terri Simon is an Illinois Press Association awardwinning columnist, journalist and photographer. She can be reached at tsimon@ bcrnews.com. Find more essays like this one in her book titled, “Grandma’s Cookie Jar,” available through Boxing Day Books at www.boxingdaybooks.com.

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